The evolution of bipedalism for the early hominids was merely an adaptation to
the newfound lifestyle that early man began to lead. No longer was the body
adapting to better climbing and life in the trees as this species was slowly
becoming a hunting and gathering population. One of the main reasons for this
change is the conservation of energy. As these hominids began to spend much of
their day on foot in search for food, this bipedal form of walking was adapted
as it uses much less energy than the creatures that walk on all fours. The
mechanics of bipedal movement was simply a more energy efficient act, but at the
same time, this posture decreased the direct exposure to the sun, keeping the
individual cooler, and ultimately saving even more energy. Also, as an advantage
to hunting and gathering, hominids were now tall and could reach things and have
a better and taller view of the surroundings. This provided a huge advantage
over the predators of their time. Two additional advantages of bipedal
locomotion is the allowance of two limbs whose purpose was solely to carry or
transport possessions. Whether this is food or wood or whatever it may have
been, hominids could now carry just about anything for long distances. This
freedom of the arms and hands also allowed an easier and better solution to
taking care of the young. All of these reasons show the advantages of bipedalism.